The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with Borno State Government has engaged 12,162 youths in the waste management of Maiduguri metropolis, Bama and Biu Councils.
The engagement of youths, is funded under the EU support sustainable waste management and environment protection in the state.
This was disclosed in the Borno State Monthly Update (BMU) report, exclusively released yesterday (Wednesday) to The Guardian in Maiduguri.
“The current cash for work activities are addressing the hygiene situation in 29 communities of Maiduguri metropolis,” said the report.
It explained that the waste management activities comprise the clearing of accumulated waste in streets and drainages.
Besides, the report added that; “Previously, the cash for work activity has also supported the improvements in hygiene in 47 communities of Maiduguri, Bama and Biu.”
According to the UN agency, the amount and stretch of accumulated waste; last September hit 7,389 tons and 112km in the three affected towns.
In addition to waste management support, the report further disclosed: “The UNDP in the last two years focused on the capacity building of the Borno State Environment Protection Agency (BOSEPA).
It noted that these are essential support to achieve resilience, as the project was completed last December.
In the completion of the waste management project, the UN agency refurbished 18 trucks and a loader, delivered seven computers and an electric generator.
The agency also completed the training of 68 seniour staff and sanitary inspectors of the State’s agency.
“We ensure that 1.84 million residents were sensitized on the sustenance of waste management to protect the environment,” said the report.
Continued: “The ongoing UNDP activities under the EU funded project include the procurement of 700 waste bins,” adding that the bins will be distributed to various communities for effective waste management delivery service.
While the design of disposal sites were prepared and reviewed by the State’s agency.